[Misc] Sanitize a HDD in Ricoh MP C2550

[MFPs R Now PCs]

We have a Ricoh MP C2550 that the customer wants the Hard Drive sanitized, or securely erased. Is there a way to do this on the machine itself like on the Konica Minolta bizhub series where you can write and erase the entire HDD 7 times (Dept. of Defense level)?

If not, what is the procedure/menu for formatting the drive once installed in the machine so it will accept it?

Since we're on the subject, if I have to pull the HDD and use a PC to securely erase it, what free software has everyone used that worked well for you?

Thanks in Advance and hope your 4th of July was good!

[skynetto]

Re: Sanitize a HDD in Ricoh MP C2550

Check this. Works fine for me and its freeware.

HDDGURU: HDD Wipe Tool

[teebee1234]

Re: Sanitize a HDD in Ricoh MP C2550

If the customer is keeping the machine then sell them a DOSS card. That will keep it securely erased at all times and you can set the level to whatever you want (random numbers X times, DOD, NSA standards). If they're not keeping it then I would write up a Hard Drive Surrender and give it to them. If it means keeping\making a sale then I'd remove it and give it to them to format, then I'd reinstall it as a courtesy. You shouldn't be responsible for the security if it's not in writing and run the risk of being blamed for some (very unlikely but possible) data breach in the future.

[Iowatech]

Re: Sanitize a HDD in Ricoh MP C2550

Actually, I've seen a shredder that was specifically designed to safely destroy hard drives (pretty sure that was from MBM), although it probably would be cheaper and maybe even faster (and way more fun) to simply smash the hard drive flat with a big hammer. Just make sure to have proper safety glasses if you do that, though.
Still, DOSS is your best bet if you want to make sure the drive is properly cleared of data while in the machine.

[TonerMunkeh]

Re: Sanitize a HDD in Ricoh MP C2550

I'd love to see that shredder working.

Anyway, the tried and tested method:

On a more serious note, teebee is pretty much bang on. Easiest and most secure way is to pull the hard disk, replace it with a new one and hand the customer the old one. Then, it's their problem.